Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the bone marrow that usually occurs in persons over age 50, with incidence and mortality rates usually twice as high among blacks as whites. One hundred fifty seven (157) cases were reported among the SRRHIS population from 1991 through 1993.

The incidence rate for white males of 4.8 per 100,000 was slightly lower than the Atlanta (5.8) and SEER (5.4) rates (Figure 18). The incidence rate for white females was also slightly lower than comparison groups (SRRHIS: 2.8; Atlanta: 3.0; SEER: 3.4).

For black males the incidence rate was higher than for white men, but markedly lower than the SEER rate for black men (SRRHIS: 6.3; Atlanta: 10.0; SEER: 11.3). The rate for black females is also considerably lower than comparison groups (SRRHIS: 5.7; Atlanta: 8.6; SEER: 8.2).

The causes of multiple myeloma are poorly understood, and there is no reason known for the disparity of rates between blacks and white persons, except to suspect some genetic factor may be involved to put blacks at higher risk. Ionizing radiation has been established as a risk factor from studies of atomic bomb survivors. Persons engaged in farming and agricultural work may be at increased risk, but it is not clear what exposure contributes to the increased risk. Certain occupational exposure and medical conditions have been suggested to increase risk, but associations with multiple myeloma are not well established.

The five year relative survival rate for multiple myeloma is about 28%, and is similar for whites and blacks.